Posted this messages last night over at WDSfans.com:
QuoteDisney Central Plaza member "McFly" reports a possible change at Backlot Express Restaurant.
He claims that three themed rooms will take over the current restaurant. The rooms will be based on the popular Disney franchises: Pirates of the Caribbean, The Chronicles of Narnia and High School Musical.
Currently, Backlot Express Restaurant is designed as a props warehouse with thousands of items decorating walls and ceiling.
Thoughts? :)
Quote from: "Kristof"Posted this messages last night over at WDSfans.com:
QuoteDisney Central Plaza member "McFly" reports a possible change at Backlot Express Restaurant.
He claims that three themed rooms will take over the current restaurant. The rooms will be based on the popular Disney franchises: Pirates of the Caribbean, The Chronicles of Narnia and High School Musical.
Currently, Backlot Express Restaurant is designed as a props warehouse with thousands of items decorating walls and ceiling.
Thoughts? :)
I am not sure that Narnia could be considered popular enough to warrant its own themed place. HSM? Possibly but it strikes me that Disney would want to make better use of the money elsewhere when there is nothing wrong with the current theme.
I'm not really sure about this idea.
I think the present theme fits really good into that area. And it looks really cool, it's something unique.
(//http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg111/swity23/Disney2009Chris121.jpg)
(//http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg111/swity23/Disney2009350.jpg)
(//http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg111/swity23/Disney2009702.jpg)
(//http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg111/swity23/Disney2009352.jpg)
But I think the new themes look good as well,but possibly it doesn't fit into that area with RnRRC for example.
I think, if they do it right, this could work well. Though I doubt they'd have a Narnia room - as ford said, it's not the most popular franchise, plus Disney have ended the contract for it. All the props around the current restaurant look fine, but otherwise it's really just another bland Studios warehouse, so some livening up could do it well!
Quote from: "Agent Lex"I think, if they do it right, this could work well. Though I doubt they'd have a Narnia room - as ford said, it's not the most popular franchise, plus Disney have ended the contract for it. All the props around the current restaurant look fine, but otherwise it's really just another bland Studios warehouse, so some livening up could do it well!
Disney still has the rights for the first 2 movies. And don't forget they have quite a few props from the first movie that's no longer part of the Studio Tram Tour. :wink:
I love the idea of themed rooms, I'm just not sure about the themes themselves. I think Pirates Of The Caribbean could work, but the other two I'm not so sure about... :? As long as the general "leftover-props" theme is kept, it might be alright.
Can't they redo the exterior as well? [-o< That's two restaurants now that have changed on the inside when it's the outside that needs most work!!
I'm quite interested about this idea, I can really see how this would work too, it could actually work really well. But we'll have to see. To be honest, I wouldn't mind if they kept the current look, or went with this :wink:
Quote from: "RnRCj"Can't they redo the exterior as well? [-o< That's two restaurants now that have changed on the inside when it's the outside that needs most work!!
Completely agree there. The building itself is actually ok, one of the more interesting original WDS buildings, but it does need a good paint. And as for the ugly collection of lampposts, the horrible planters and the general car park feel... Why are there (possibly) thoughts of redoing the inside?
I like the idea though. They could theme the old terrace which they covered over (the room to the right as you enter) as the ice palace from Narnia, since it's always absolutely freezing with only crappy heater lamps.
I really hope they'd employ some more checkout CMs though. After 2pm there's usually only one person to pay, and the comment you hear most as people pick up their €20 mickey pizzas is "this is going to be cold by the time we pay..."
Who wants to bet it'll be renamed to Restaurant des Blockbusters?
Edit: Whoa I'm so negative today, but seriously - I wish they'd stop skirting around the issues of WDS and spend this money on say, some more substantial dining in Toon Studio. Even some tiny serving kiosk with a few
tables like Café Cafés would be welcome over there.
Hmmm, I quite like the decor. But I'm ok with a dec change as long as we do not lose the Star Wars Props. The problem here is the menu and service though, not the decor IMHO.
At least it's not being toonified. :lol:
Hopefully some of the most significant existing props will be kept in one central area of the restaurant, and the themed rooms could be off to the sides or something.
I can't comment on the service or the menu. I haven't been in there for years, which is strange seeing as I spend so much time in that area of the park. :P
I know part of the fun might be to spot them, but some of the more worthy props could do with being labelled.
Anyway, McFly on DCP has added that the restaurant will be renamed! ...From Backlot Express Restaurant to Restaurant Backlot Express. I assume that's not a joke, since I noticed Agrabah Cafe is now listed as Restaurant Agrabah Cafe on maps.
It's also mentioned that the restaurant would also serve to advertise/tie-in with new and upcoming films. So it sounds like this is Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures group at work... *Gulp*
Remember when you were young and you pretended to help your parents clean by simply shuffling things around? That's what they're doing at the Studios. Despite the fact that the park is now busier than ever, they're doing nothing except shuffle things around. Change a name, add a potted plant, remove it later, replace a billboard, hide the derelict building with an old picture of the building...
I don't really understand it. Nor do I understand why they think this place is what needs a thematic upgrade the most.
Going back to what RnRCj said about the exterior...
(//http://www.imgdash.com/uploads/71759_P1180245.jpg)
The grey concrete planters filled with gravel, the "lighting rigs" with posters of forgotten films, the black garden centre lampposts, the faded "Backlot" paint, the corrugated walls with no detail... The other side, with the large windows and the taxi isn't bad, but where would you even begin?
Surprising to hear it won't become Backlot Express... with Mickey and Friends, however.
i don´t know what to say, for me all they do right now is just half-baked,
my thoughts is that the backlot express don´t need a fast fixed new decoration,
it´s good like it is.
they should spend the money to the outside and try to make it look better!
Either guests are getting ever sneakier or work has begun...
The room on the right-hand side of the building, Before:
(//http://scroogy7509.ifrance.com/may09/rehab090503.jpg)
After:
(//http://scroogy7509.ifrance.com/may09/rehab090504.jpg)
Photos by Scrooge, Disney Magic Interactive (//http://www.disneymagicinteractive.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=17&p=60105&sid=58ebacb1387d541fdf25c5ebb1a69158#p60059)
I have to admitt, I' ve never been a big fan of the Backlot Express. Last time I was inside was Jan 08 and the service was horrible.
So where will all those props go? Hopefully they will be "recycled" and used somewhere else at the resort. It'd be a shame to lose them forever!
Quote from: "RnRCj"So where will all those props go? Hopefully they will be "recycled" and used somewhere else at the resort. It'd be a shame to lose them forever!
"Come see the new and improved Studio Tram Tour... with Mickey and Friends, featuring even more props than ever before! :wink: :lol:
Quote from: "The Butlin Boy"Quote from: "RnRCj"So where will all those props go? Hopefully they will be "recycled" and used somewhere else at the resort. It'd be a shame to lose them forever!
"Come see the new and improved Studio Tram Tour... with Mickey and Friends, featuring even more props than ever before! :wink: :lol:
That is strangely believable! All those props lined up along the new route, as if their of some significance. :lol:
Looking at the pictures above, I hope they don't
just add a few new props to the restaurant. They should also add some
real theming inside. The way the restaurant is so open and cold, with metal walls and concrete floor... it's not welcoming at all. They need to close the place in more and add some warmth to it, using colours and other techniques. I hope this ends up being a little more than just the film-related-props-in-a-box restaurant it is now.
I have never even been tempted to go inside this restaurant. I spend a lot of time in this area of WDS, particularly after exiting from R'n'RC, but the building just looks cold and uninviting from the outside. If the imagineers themed it really well, then I'm sure a lot more people would be tempted in :) me included!
a car with a pic from the HSM 3 movie is in front of backlot express...
(//http://nsa07.casimages.com/img/2009/05/15/090515094335955543.jpg)
Quote from: "lil-shawn"a car with a pic from the HSM 3 movie is in front of backlot express...
(//http://nsa07.casimages.com/img/2009/05/15/090515094335955543.jpg)
I assume that this car was used to promote the film when it was released, and has now been given to DLP? :wink: :P
Yes what a DUMB plan to set this up:
HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL IS OVER!There are coming no more Zack (troy) and Vanessa if they would like to make another High School Musical , HSM4! Why now , DLP , Why now??:(
I must say, I´m feeling a bit sad. The interior never was a problem for me. The outside seating area was the problem. But I think there they must do more. They must have a big placemaking to get the problems there out of their way. At the moment the outsite of backlock express is seating next to a rollercoaster in a hall, a stundshow and a building with "ARMAGEDDDDON" at the outsite. All together with this nerve-racking action music which is nice for five minutes but if you want to eat something you can get a problem here.
They should placemake the backlot into a real backlot of great studios. Why not hint the stundshow behind some garages with traditional screenwriter offices at the first floor, give Rock´n´Roller-Coaster a proper record label outside and at some greenery and a fountain (A rock´n´roller/record label fountain would be nice with Electric guitars and some other cool stuff inside). That would be something that I could understand. But inside Backlot Express the theming was nice, well, cool and understandable for the guests.
Absolutely HORRIBLE.
I know backlot is quite a generic and modern area, but a plain car like this just looks hideous inside a Disney Park. It looks like one of those show cars you see parked inside shopping centres. Absolutely NOT worth however many thousand euros the [strike:32r0rk2y]MORONS[/strike:32r0rk2y] kind people at Buena Vista have signed over to ruin the park this time.
Does not bode well for the interior...
La Roquine reports that the Narnia room has been dropped. It's just POTC and HSM.
QuoteLe restaurant va subir une transformation complète avec un nouveau thème accès sur deux univers : d'un côté celui de Pirates des Caraïbes (les films) et de l'autre celui de High School Musical.
Quote from: "Riebi"I must say, I´m feeling a bit sad. The interior never was a problem for me. The outside seating area was the problem. But I think there they must do more. They must have a big placemaking to get the problems there out of their way. At the moment the outsite of backlock express is seating next to a rollercoaster in a hall, a stundshow and a building with "ARMAGEDDDDON" at the outsite. All together with this nerve-racking action music which is nice for five minutes but if you want to eat something you can get a problem here.
They should placemake the backlot into a real backlot of great studios. Why not hint the stundshow behind some garages with traditional screenwriter offices at the first floor, give Rock´n´Roller-Coaster a proper record label outside and at some greenery and a fountain (A rock´n´roller/record label fountain would be nice with Electric guitars and some other cool stuff inside). That would be something that I could understand. But inside Backlot Express the theming was nice, well, cool and understandable for the guests.
Off topic; I do like your idea riebi, when you say fountain it reminds me of the muppets fountain in Disneys Hollywood Studios;
(//http://photos.igougo.com/images/p87148-Walt_Disney_World-Muppet_Fountain.jpg)
God, i wish we had Muppet Vision 3D ! [-o<
And back on topic; That car looks awful ! :cry:
Why don't we just rename Backlot to Vehicle-land? I mean we've got this, the taxi, the Moteurs Action cars, the Soundtrackers (which looks like cars), the Aerosmith tourbus, the Armadillo, the motorbikes, the trailers, and Cafe des Cascadeurs! :lol:
In all seriousness, yes the car does look bad and random. Scrap the car and bring back Push!!
Quote from: "RnRCj"Scrap the car and bring back Push!!
Push was just embarassing. Living characters should be
characters!
I love the MuppetVision building in DHS. Why can't WDS have brickbuilt buildings like that? They're actually so much nicer than the bland "art deco" (read: cheapo concrete) buildings everywhere in WDS, or the plain ugly corrugated metal of Backlot Express. Lots of character, and probably more suitable for a European audience. It feels *real*.
On topic: I've got a feeling the POTC area will be wildly more popular than the wildcats...
well guys, how many of you have been on a real backlot?
I have in europe, the UK and Hollywood, and BLE is perfect for what it is. That said though, that car is aweful and should disappear, quickly.
That´s a good point Dave :mrgreen:
I must say I was at some backlots in my life, maybe because I worked at a TV production till december last year. (like my best friend said it after crossing studio 1 and seeing this parking lot structure first time in 2006 "oh...it look like a movie studio...like at work....") so, the thing is WDS looked like a real movie studio, backlot maybe look very authentic but noooobody on earth would really make holliday on a movie studio/backlot area...it´s bare ugly and enormous boring. Just halls and concrete. For a magical Disney Studio and a magical Disney Backlot I need an old fashioned backlot. One of this you could see in Sunset Bvd, or even older movies. Where you could say: Oh yes there are the offices and oh yes that´s the sound department. And not: Oh yes theres the stunt show and cars. Oh yes theres a rollercoaster in a hall...something with aerosmith. Oh yes theres a big concrete area where you can have lunch while hearing action music.
Agreed there is much they can do to make the Studios more appealing, but I do not think redoing the inside of the Back Lot Express does not need a huge amount of work. It is the menu and service that means we rarely go in there, not the scenary.
But I like that WDS feels like a real studio. There is more to be done though, far more.
Quote from: "davewasbaloo"Agreed there is much they can do to make the Studios more appealing, but I do not think redoing the inside of the Back Lot Express does not need a huge amount of work. It is the menu and service that means we rarely go in there, not the scenary.
But I like that WDS feels like a real studio. There is more to be done though, far more.
Absolutly! I even don´t get why we need a HSM and POTC room where we could sit under great props...And the service is here something hard stuff. The should improve the terrasse and the service not the inside of BE!
(And I like the feeling of a real studio too. It should just look a bit "nicer" as Hollywood Bvd. do now (just add some movie cameras there))
Are you asking yourself how a bare Backlot Express could look like? Pixiedust has some pics for us:
(//http://www.pixiedust.be/DLP-18mei09%20027.jpg)
(//http://www.pixiedust.be/DLP-18mei09%20028.jpg)
(//http://www.pixiedust.be/DLP-18mei09%20029.jpg)
:arrow: //http://www.pixiedust.be/pagina77aaaaaaaaaaaaa.html
Oh my word, see how much of a difference those props make?
There really had better be good reason for doing this. Fingers crossed something better is coming.
In my opinion this restaurant didn't look bad. It wasn't necessary to retheme it, especially not to HSM.
Quote from: "dagobert"In my opinion this restaurant didn't look bad. It wasn't necessary to retheme it, especially not to HSM.
Agreed. No need to change the indoors - the menu and the service were the problem for me.
Just like I think there is no need to put a giant Mickey on the fun Wheel at DCA.
Nor a bunch of carnival rides themed to Toy Story.
Welcome to the modern world of Disney (I miss the old days)
Not to turn this completely into another "Boo modern Disney!" topic, but just to add: the strangest thing is that the place still seems to be open during all of this. What must new guests think, that the restaurant is just themed with blank white walls? How are they meant to know there's a project ongoing, and the place isn't meant to look like IKEA (not even the maze part, the warehouse bit)?
In California they'd have prepared a million well-designed signs apologising for the works.
Ive been talking to a few of my friends about the changes to the restaurant and they have all been really positive, especially the one who went with her daughter off season and was really upset that there was no HSM presence, so I can see it being a winner for a lot of people ( i can see the wild cats banners now ) The lack of signs for the refurb those does surprise me.
If this were the US parks, the place would simply be closed with the refurb signs (at least in the good old days).
Wow, it must be so dull, boring and depressing to sit and eat in there right now. I hope for the sake of any new or irregular guests that they complete this project A.S.A.P :?
Quote from: "davewasbaloo"If this were the US parks, the place would simply be closed with the refurb signs (at least in the good old days).
It's pretty obvious why they've kept it open though isn't it; the Studios haven't got enough places to eat and can't afford to close one just for a bit :roll:
Well last summer, there were only 2 restaurants open, so it shows they could.
Quote from: "Anthony"Not to turn this completely into another "Boo modern Disney!" topic
Oh don't worry, there's no danger of that. It had already long happened.
Going back to the car, it is indeed a Ford sponsorship...
(//http://www.pixiedust.be/DLP-18mei09%20025.jpg)
Though ironically the taxi next to it is also a Ford, but had its logos removed back in 2002 so as not to upset Opel. Shame they couldn't have just been stuck back on and something like Troy's old van from the third film put here instead... Something that doesn't look like a guest drove into the park and left their car.
The whole thing looks out of place, but look at the number plate! Can anyone make out what it says? What ever it says though, it looks awful :?
Hmm, I thought the number plate was ugly too, but it's actually the one for Albuquerque, New Mexico:
(//http://images0.cafepress.com/product/66060410v6_350x350_Front.jpg)
...Which is where the High School Musical films are apparently set. So, looks like there's been enough thought put into this (on the Parisian scale) to mean it's a fairly permanent addition ... :|
hey guy´s this is what i read at micechat.com
QuoteMost of the interior decorations have already been removed, and the restaurant will close completely between the 8th and 16th of June. When it re-opens, one half of it will have a High School Musical theme, and the other half will have a Pirates of the Caribbean theme. Both sections will feature original props from the respective movies, and face characters will also be on hand for photo ops.
Even the name of the restaurant is due to change, although I've no idea what it'll be called.
hehe i think if its true the new name will be restaurant backlot or the bad food and service restaurant :lol:
Quote from: "lil-shawn"QuoteEven the name of the restaurant is due to change, although I've no idea what it'll be called.
hehe i think if its true the new name will be restaurant backlot or the bad food and service restaurant :lol:
The High School of the Caribbean Restaurant?
The Pirates of the High School Musical Eatery?
The Captain Jack needs to get his Head in the Game Cafe?
Any more? :wink:
Restaurant des Blockbusters?
Restaurant des Stars 2?
Probably too ambitious, it'll be just plain Restaurant de Backlot.
Since there are really three or even four actual areas of the restaurant, it'll be interesting to see how Pirates meets HSM in the middle, open area. I can imagine how the rooms on the the far left and right could look, but not that main entrance and serving space.
Would be nice if each area had its own music loop, too. Anything other than that aggressive Backlot loop.
Just posting up some photos.
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/upload/backlot-may_1.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/upload/backlot-may_6.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/upload/backlot-may_4.JPG)
More at WDSfans.com... (//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/news.php#newsitemEkuFuFylFVTuDJugnB)
So how's this going to work? Are they simply going to hang props from these 2 movies around the restaurant? Or are they going to heavily theme the restaurant so that it looks like you're eating INSIDE the movie Pirates of the Carribean, complete with theatrical lighting effects?
Will they keep it light and airy inside, or will they make like dark like Restaurant en Coulisse in Studio 1?
Quote from: "Alan"So how's this going to work? Are they simply going to hang props from these 2 movies around the restaurant? Or are they going to heavily theme the restaurant so that it looks like you're eating INSIDE the movie Pirates of the Carribean, complete with theatrical lighting effects?
Will they keep it light and airy inside, or will they make like dark like Restaurant en Coulisse in Studio 1?
Perhaps WDSfans can help us out here... :wink:
Quote from: "WDSfans"McFly brings more news on Disney Central Plaza about the Backlot Express make-over.
Work will be finished between 8 and 16 June and will transform the restaurant in 2 large rooms. One will be themed after a basketball court from the High School Musical movies.
The other room will be themed to Pirates of the Caribbean with actual props from the trilogy, directly imported from the United States.
Well, it looks to me like its been given a lick of paint ? Props to be dusted and returned hopefully :)
Offtopic; For some reason on the pirates side of this refurb, reminds me abit like the pirate rooms at Disneys Caribbean Beach Resort in WDW, Florida.
Normal room;
(//http://photos.igougo.com/images/p249770-Walt_Disney_World_FL-Disneys_Caribbean_Beach_Resort_-_Aruba_-_Room_5655.jpg)
Change into pirate room;
(//http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/27/4c/dd/orlando.jpg)
By the way, not all rooms are pirate rooms, there is an upgrade price for these rooms :wink:
Back on topic;
I have never been into backlot express so i cant share my views on the restaurants service but i feel that themeing the restaurant to films (franchises?) would be great ! :)
I am very sceptical about this change. I loved looking at all the random props around the place, spotted something different every time. At least they will be real props from the films I suppose but I still don't fully understand how these two rooms will work, does it mean the food will be served either side of a wall separating the themes?
I have never been into the Backlot Express, it doesn't look inviting and always struck me as a cold/uninviting exterior. Having the new theming would actually encourage me to go inside for a change, perhaps this is what DLP will hope will happen with many other guests. Also this area of the park is what I could call a "thrill" zone, there's not much for families, so by including HSM and POTC theming, DLP might be hoping for a more even traffic flow around the park, instead of the majority of families crowding Toon Studios?
I know that lots of the props inside the restaurant have gone (I only know of this because I've seen before/after photos), but I think if the creative people get it right, maybe the new themes will be a welcome addition to WDS. I do hope that the original props will find a place somewhere else though.
Just posted this to WDSfans... The new name for Backlot Express will be....
Blockbuster CaféQuote from: "WDSfans"McFly brings once again on Disney Central Plaza the latest news on the Backlot Express changes.
He says the new name will be... Blockbuster Café.
Backlot Express Restaurant will close on 8 June and will re-open as the new Blockbuster Café on 16 June.
What do you think of the new name? Share your opinion on the magicforum here!
Source: McFly on Disney Central Plaza / translated by http://www.wdsfans.com/ (http://www.wdsfans.com/)
Just recieved the update on Twitter. I thought it was going to be changed to HSM and POTC restaurant?
Quote from: "CentralPlazaPerson"Just recieved the update on Twitter. I thought it was going to be changed to HSM and POTC restaurant?
It's not like they're going to rename it the "Pirates of the Caribbean and High School Musical Restaurant"... :wink:
Haha point made. Is there really need for POTC, Surely blue lagoon covers that? Agree with HSM..make the interior like the cafeteria in the school. I could picture Pirates meet and greet restaurant though.
i wonder if the menu will be different now it has a 'cafe' tag. i quite like the name and i think it fits in well. Cafe is an international word that most Europeans understand, so I would expect it to be busier than Backlot Express, the old building was amazing inside but wasnt very exciting from the exterior. So fingers crossed [-o< [-o<
Blockbuster Cafe? That makes me think of, "wow, what a difference, blockbuster video" :-)
I like the name, too, but I still don't understand why they change the whole restaurant. In my opinion the interior looks good and I don't think that they will retheme the exterior.
The menu is the problem and not the setting. So hopefully there will be a new menu, too.
I like the new name, and I'm glad that they've actually bothered to change it. It makes sense that if they're going to re-do the interior, that they might as well re-launch the whole thing at the same time :)
I wonder if they'll change the menu too? Perhaps they'll sell different types of food, or theme the menu to POTC and HSM? Buccaneer Burger anyone? Jack Juice? A Singing Smoothie? Or how about a portion of Cheerleader Chips? :P
Quote from: "Anthony"Restaurant des Blockbusters?
Pretty good guess Ant, have you bought a lottery ticket tonight? :wink:
Quote from: "The Butlin Boy"I wonder if they'll change the menu too? Perhaps they'll sell different types of food, or theme the menu to POTC and HSM? Buccaneer Burger anyone? Jack Juice? A Singing Smoothie? Or how about a portion of Cheerleader Chips? :P
Dead Cows Tell no Tales menu?
Quote from: "Kristof"Quote from: "The Butlin Boy"I wonder if they'll change the menu too? Perhaps they'll sell different types of food, or theme the menu to POTC and HSM? Buccaneer Burger anyone? Jack Juice? A Singing Smoothie? Or how about a portion of Cheerleader Chips? :P
Dead Cows Tell no Tales menu?
:lol:
How about the '
You Are The Music In Meat Menu'? :roll:
We're all in this together mixed salad?
Quote from: "davewasbaloo"We're all in this together mixed salad?
Nice one, I like it :P
"I'll have some of Boot Strap Bill's Chicken Legs, with a side order of Captain's Coleslaw and one of Sharpay's Strawberry Shakes please"
"One minute sir, I just need to Work This Out!"
:P
I'll start with the Davy Jones Calimari
Then move on to the Troy Tortilla Spanish Omlette
And then finish with the Tortuga Torte
Quote from: "davewasbaloo"I'll start with the Davy Jones Calimari
Then move on to the Troy Tortilla Spanish Omlette
And then finish with the Tortuga Torte
:lol: =D>
"Stick to the status quo"...."Stick to the salad bowl"
I wasn't far wrong with the sarcastic guess of Restaurant des Blockbusters then...
Blockbuster Café. I'm not sure if that constitutes a 100% bland name or not. Might depend on what kind of logo they come up with, though currently I'm just imagining the blue and yellow Blockbuster Video logo with "Cafe" stuck on.
At least a name change might mean something being done about the exterior...
Other names which they considered, but ultimately rejected, include:
- Movie Cafe
- Backlot Express: Mission 2
- Walt Disney Pictures Presents A Pixar Animation Studios Production Of A Movie Cafe
- Another Sequel Cafe
- Direct To DVD Diner
- High School Musicafeteria
- Restaurantemagique
- Cafemagique
- Foodmagique
- Pirates of the Cafeteria
- Captain Jack's Snack Attack
- Get'cha Head In The Food
- High School Musical 5: Now It's A Restaurant
- Pirates: From Ride, To Movie, To Restaurant
- Big White Building With Props In It
QuoteOther names which they considered, but ultimately rejected, include:
- Movie Cafe
- Backlot Express: Mission 2
- Walt Disney Pictures Presents A Pixar Animation Studios Production Of A Movie Cafe
- Another Sequel Cafe
- Direct To DVD Diner
- High School Musicafeteria
- Restaurantemagique
- Cafemagique
- Foodmagique
- Pirates of the Cafeteria
- Captain Jack's Snack Attack
- Get'cha Head In The Food
- High School Musical 5: In Burger Form
- Pirates: From Ride, To Movie, To Restaurant
- Big White Building With Props In It
:lol: hahaha, i think the last one would be very nice and it really says what´s inside...
Quote from: "Alan"- Pirates of the Cafeteria
Oh, I like that one! :lol:
Quote from: "Anthony"Quote from: "Alan"- Pirates of the Cafeteria
Oh, I like that one! :lol:
Arr, me hearty. I be likin' the idea o' it bein' a Pirates Cafeteria. Just imagine, pirates linin' up with thar plastic trays, pickin' out croque monsieurs and Mickey Brioches. Garrrr.
Pirates of the Musical... :P
I like the new name. So they can change the inside everytime they want to another blockbusters. No new name change needed if Pirates or HSM are history.
Photos from this weekend! I guess we can now say which room is becoming POTC and which HSM...
More photos at WDSfans.com here (//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/news.php#newsitemEkuuuEllyZSfLELeqV).
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/upload/backlot_express_7june1.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/upload/backlot_express_7june2.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/upload/backlot_express_7june5.JPG)
Obviously early days at the moment but its shaping up nicely.
I hope it turns out nicely.
It's definitely looking good at the minute :)
In the last photo, there is a sign reading "Paint Shop" hanging from the ceiling in the background. Has that always been there and has been ironically left, or is that the current themeing for the restaurant? :wink:
Quote from: "The Butlin Boy"It's definitely looking good at the minute :)
In the last photo, there is a sign reading "Paint Shop" hanging from the ceiling in the background. Has that always been there and has been ironically left, or is that the current themeing for the restaurant? :wink:
The Paint Shop was the cash register area. The red closets had buckets of paints in it.
Quote from: "Kristof"Quote from: "The Butlin Boy"It's definitely looking good at the minute :)
In the last photo, there is a sign reading "Paint Shop" hanging from the ceiling in the background. Has that always been there and has been ironically left, or is that the current themeing for the restaurant? :wink:
The Paint Shop was the cash register area. The red closets had buckets of paints in it.
I had a feeling it was something like that, it's pretty suitable to leave that up at the minute isn't it :wink:
Ohh, ok... I was predicting the room towards the back would be Pirates and the brighter, larger room with the big windows would be the gym from High School Musical. But no, I suppose it makes sense to paint that nice light and airy area black... :lol:
Here's hoping this week sees some damn good props/themeing go in on top of that. I like the "Wildcat red" already.
Thanks for the photos!
To quote Nigel Tuffnell:
"Its like how much more black could it be? None... none more black..."
I was thinking of this, a black room with no windows could be too dark and the white and red could be too bright. So this makes some sense. Also, I think if people walking by look in and see PotC stuff, it will entice them in more than HSM.
hm..I think I would take the dark side...
I have to say that I'm really looking forward to that change. I love both movies, so I'll look forward to sit down and enjoy that atmosphere. I also think that the new theming will attract smaller children as well! Can't wait to go!! :D/
The first decorations have been installed. Although in my opinion this change isn't nearly as bad as the awful Cafe Cafes sign and Restaurant des Stars name change, I do regret that certain props have been removed like the Star Wars flying machine and the skycraper used in Armageddon. But who knows, maybe they will reuse them somewhere in the restaurant. After all, Armageddon and Star Wars were both blockbusters aswell right?
(//http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v503/Moos/18.jpg)
Source: djbass at Disney Central Plaza
Lets hope they will show some real props that were used in the High School Musical and Pirates of the Caribbean films instead of some props "inspired by the movies". :wink:
Put them on Tram Tour sure :-k :-k
Quote from: "Maarten"I do regret that certain props have been removed like the Star Wars flying machine and the skycraper used in Armageddon. But who knows, maybe they will reuse them somewhere in the restaurant. After all, Armageddon and Star Wars were both blockbusters aswell right?
I'm personally predicting a couple more additions appearing on the Studio Tram Tour :wink: :P
The Wild Cat posters are visibility tests. :)
Ok! I can see them! They are visible! :lol:
Can someone post a pic of the mentioned Star wars flying machine? I didn't spot this last time I went - and I'll never get a chance to spot it again!!
Was it definately from Star Wars?
MM
Here it is...
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/walt_disney_studios/backlot/backlot_express/DSC00073.JPG)
It's a real prop from Return of the Jedi.
More photos. (//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/walt_disney_studios/backlot/backlot_express.php)
McFly has now posted on Disney Central Plaza that works end 15th July 2009.
Did it actually close to guests last week as reported?
Grandmath reports on DCP that Backlot Express re-opened today after its closure, but no theming has been added yet.
Ahh, this picture must be from yesterday then:
(//http://idata.over-blog.com/2/33/94/76/8/807433blog.jpg)
Love it. "FERME POUR TRAVAUX" in bold black ink. "California... blah blah.. better signs... blah" :wink:
re-opens 15th july ? Will post pictures then ;) I happen to be there :P
Still open for business but new floring is now down in the High School Musical area.
Small update from mouetto at Disney Central Plaza:
(//http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/430/03072009005f.jpg)
The "Express" sign has been removed, as well as the "restaurant" sign just above the door.
I liked the old concept. Hope it is not all thrown away. :(
And now we have another update, from Boby at Disney Central Plaza:
(//http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs183.snc1/6094_98633176777_704951777_2115636_7781821_n.jpg)
It's a shame how the main focus seems to be on HSM, and less on POTC. Can a HSM fan let us know if this banner has actually appeared in any of the films?
As has been said in other posts, this is Disney doing branding rather than themeing. They don't want to transport you to a time or place anymore. They're not even trying. They don't care. They just want to overlay enough branding to associate with a movie.
Yep, we have been on this trajectory for a while, and others have called me crazy, or indeed have been quite mean to me about stating my concerns. It is not just about my personal tastes. I think in the medium and long term, this could really hurt Disney.
The long set of graphics on the back wall looks like it's from the films, not sure about the banner.
I'm still hoping this re-do includes more than things we could just go down to the printers and have made up ourselves...
And again, nice that guests are left to assume the sign outside fell off and Disney don't care, rather than put up a few signs saying "we're preparing some new magic here... but the restaurant is still open" or something.
Was the Backlot Express popular?
Whenever we went in there it was half empty at best. So although I liked the themeing inside did it really catch on? Maybe that's why Disney want to make a few changes?
Since High School Musical and Pirates have been very popular, are Disney wrong to feature them in their theme parks ?
Wow I didn't see that coming!! :shock: I agree with Anthony that I hope we see more than just some pictures here- if they are going to re-theme it they really should go all the way! I can see why they are doing this to the Backlot Express as I don't think it ever was a massive pull as it was, in fact I think it was always pretty hard to see that it was a restraunt at all. By the way I don't like HSM so that's not why I can see some small positives in changing it.
I can see what Daveswasbaloo and Alan are saying that they are focusing much more on theming than transporting you to a different world etc.
New photos from the latest Photos Magiques trip report (//http://www.photosmagiques.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=7349):
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/news_updates/05-06_july_2009/blockbuster1.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/news_updates/05-06_july_2009/blockbuster2.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/news_updates/05-06_july_2009/blockbuster3.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/news_updates/05-06_july_2009/blockbuster4.JPG)
Oh yay, posters. So my comment about popping down the printers still stands.
But that said, the High School Musical "theme" does naturally fit this space very well. It feels reasonably close to the films, and will hopefully get better once they introduce a bit of yellow (in those banners lying on the floor above). Some props of some kind - even just a few cheap basketballs bought from Auchan Val d'Europe - wouldn't go amiss, though the bigger test will be the POTC area...
I think it looks pretty good, and I'm far from a High School Musical fan! Its bright and colourful.
Like you said Anthony, the bigger challenge will definitely be the Pirates zone. Much more difficult to pull off than some white paint and some banners.
To be honest I don't think this pirate restaurant is a good idea! I'm only starting to realize this now. Why not make one big cafe and call it Disney Channel Cafe or something and have all the programmes and original movies as the theming. Have your high school musicals, your Hannah Montana's and your Jonas Brothers etc. I think this would attract a bigger crowd than blockbuster cafe but that's my opinion.
I really don't like this. It should be a props filled restaurant. Actual props from recent movies would be a good addition. Even if that means HSM or POTC. But this seem far from that idea. So, no thanks you. To me this is throwing away the whole concept of this restaurant.
Real movie props will be added the last minute. The backstory of Blockbuster Café will remain a storage facility for movie props.
Edit: screenshot from the movie, the images all the way in the back look like the ones above the buffet:
(//http://www.jimhillmedia.com/mb/images/upload/High-School-Musical-Cafeter.jpg)
Have they done much to the Pirates section yet? Nice to see a lot being done though but I'm really going to miss the mass amount of props hanging around everywhere.
Quote from: "peep"Have they done much to the Pirates section yet? Nice to see a lot being done though but I'm really going to miss the mass amount of props hanging around everywhere.
No, nothing new has happened there.
Quote from: "Kristof"(//http://www.jimhillmedia.com/mb/images/upload/High-School-Musical-Cafeter.jpg)
Bringing over at least one or two of those tables would be cool.
Not really keen on the full title being
Disney Blockbuster Café. Sounds forced.
so far its looking more of a High School Musical Café than anything else...
I'm surprised they didn't write Wildcat's or something similar....
They might as well just leave out the Pirates bit, and go all the way with a High School MusiCafe or High School Musical Canteen.
If they went fully with High School Musical then it'd be even quieter than before.
There needs to be some kind of panic room for the sane people who wouldn't be seen dead in the HSM zone.
I'm still wondering if the restaurant will get its own background music from the films in question. The whole thing will be a bit hollow otherwise. As I said before in the topic, the aggressive Backlot loop isn't very nice in a restaurant anyway.
Wildcat's Café hmm there is a thought lol
or East High Cafeteria?
Yes there will be a seperate sound system for both areas to enhance the theme with music played on a loop but I would not want to sit near where both rooms come close together as the experience may be diluted by both sound systems playing over each other.
I certainly understand the appeal of an High School Musical based eatery to some visitors.
Still, regarding this make-over, I still shake my head and wonder:
WHY?
Quote from: "phantom247"Yes there will be a seperate sound system for both areas to enhance the theme with music played on a loop but I would not want to sit near where both rooms come close together as the experience may be diluted by both sound systems playing over each other.
Ahh, well that's good news! Do you happen to know if the menu will also be made more... exciting?
Quote from: "experiment627"WHY?
Yeah. Pussinboots recently summed up a lot of the smaller changes to WDS perfectly, that it's like when you were told by your parents to tidy your room but you just end up moving things around to make it look like you're actually doing something... I'm sure he told it better.
Unfortunatly as far as I can assatain there are no current plans to change the menu even though that should have been there first priority before the big re-hab.
Greetings from Santa Fe!
Dont know if this has been posted yet but on friday, the "Backlot" on the main entrance was replaced with "Blockbuster". Although, after getting off RnRC today i noticed (wasn't near that area yesterday) that the writing has disappeared.
Will post pictures of it tomorrow when i return.
Quote from: "Anthony"Yeah. Pussinboots recently summed up a lot of the smaller changes to WDS perfectly, that it's like when you were told by your parents to tidy your room but you just end up moving things around to make it look like you're actually doing something... I'm sure he told it better.
No no, you've improved on it actually.
But did I just read this correctly? There will be a non-stop High School Musical soundtrack? Goodness. There's just no avoiding those awful songs in this park.
You will continue to find me at Starbucks, listening to the coma-inducing elevator music they play there, haha.
From what i have seen today, It's not my cup of tea, Studio 1 catering it is then!
Got a few photos of it today (14/7/09) on my iPhone, Camera was sitting in Baggage :p
Remember. You saw them here first ;)
http://imgdash.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=184 (http://imgdash.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=184)
(//http://imgdash.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=187&g2_serialNumber=1)
Pah. It really is just branding, isn't it. It doesn't transport you on to the set of High School Musical. It doesn't make you think you're in a real High School. It doesn't even make you think you're in a movie studio. It's more like being surrounded by a huge advert. It's like eating in a warehouse surrounded by adverts for High School Musical.
No escapism, no fantasy. Not the sort of thing you pay £500-800 to travel to France for, to see.
I wish they'd change the actual facade, it looks awful. Also is that new "signage" for real? I hope it's someone's photoshop attempt, as it reminds me so much of this... (//http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i195/luke7059/blockbuster.jpg)
QuoteNo escapism, no fantasy. Not the sort of thing you pay £500-800 to travel to France for, to see.
If you would travel to DLP just to see [strike:2y320ykh]Backlot Express[/strike:2y320ykh] Blockbuster Café, that would be sad. :lol: Imagine flying to WDW just to ride Primeval Whirl... :lol: :lol:
Quote from: "Kristof"QuoteNo escapism, no fantasy. Not the sort of thing you pay £500-800 to travel to France for, to see.
If you would travel to DLP just to see [strike:8y97b4ao]Backlot Express[/strike:8y97b4ao] Blockbuster Café, that would be sad. :lol: Imagine flying to WDW just to ride Primeval Whirl... :lol: :lol:
But there is no doubt that places like California Grill, Napa Rose, 50's Prime Time, Ohana, Sci Fi Dine In are all as important and as much of a draw as any of the attractions. Where WDS is particularly poor, they need all the help they can get.
Thanks for the gallery Nicholas! How'd you get those up so quick from DLP? Enjoy the fireworks tonight (I'm jealous).
Quote from: "Nicholas-c"(//http://imgdash.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=187&g2_serialNumber=1)
Now as far as I know iPhones don't have a Photoshop app? Seriously, that looks like someone took a photo of Backlot Express, used the generic star shape tool and then wrote "BLOCKBUSTER" in Impact font across it. Just awful, cheap, bland, boring design for a Disney park. And very reminiscent of the video store as luke says. Though it actually looks exactly as I expected, it's still disappointing. The turquoise lower down the façade could do with repainting too. In fact, the whole thing needs a clean.
Putting that huge HSM3 poster in the serving area immediately seems like a big mistake, since I highly doubt the restaurant will be updated regularly for new releases as proposed. The HSM "themeing" as a whole generally seems rather... light. I mean, they've had a while to work on this now and all we've got are a few posters. It's almost like they dived in there, chucked out all the old props and then thought "crap, do we have enough HSM posters to fill this space?".
And it's still shocking they're letting people enjoy their €11.35 sandwich, crisps, drink and miniature desert in the empty, black-painted future POTC area without any notice that they're in the middle of works. I mean, wow, guest satisfaction really can't get much lower... can you imagine if they stripped out Market House Deli, painted it black and let people still eat in there? The only way is up. Though I suppose it won't be finished for the rumoured date of... tomorrow?
The old Backlot Express seem like such an incredible restaurant after seeing this. :roll:
Here's my thought. While conceived with good intentions, the extremely-low-budget "improvements" over the past few years have been universally pointless, in some cases disastrous. The balloons and fluorescently repainted stores in Disney Village were no hit, Toon Studio looked no better sky blue, Constellations isn't any more stellar without the Da Vinci, Rendez-Vous Des Stars didn't need the new name, Cinemagique doesn't look any different to but the sharpest spectator. There is of course a chance that Euro Disney sees things differently, but I hope not.
Why not stop doing them. Either do a real refurb or just lay off. What's the point of this?
Anyway, maybe they could do some damage control if they just age the building a little. Maybe that would at least give it a hint of the Disney aesthetic.
We went into the new Blockbuster Cafe ourselves the other day, not to eat just to have a look. It's much brighter inside I'll say that. We both felt the themeing in the Backlot Express was better. They have spoilt it. To be fair it's not yet finished inside, so maybe I should wait. Why did they change it? Maybe Disney hope that the HSM theme wiill bring in more customers. When ever we went into Backlot Express it was always half empty or nearly deserted. Most people seem to prefer Studio I for fast food. We'll see if the new theme will bring in more customers. But I doubt it.
Well apparently today was the opening day... :-k Pirates area closed off, Not many people inside eating, 1 cashier on... Kinda worrying...
Guess what tho!! Time to play... Spot the difference!!
(//http://imgdash.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=221&g2_serialNumber=1) (//http://imgdash.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=219)
Apparently someone wasn't happy with just blockbuster and felt copyright issues were ahead, so he edited his photoshop file to add "Disney"
Inside it seems they are playing the old music, I can just about stand it as it is, add HSM on loop and i am out :P
the windows by the HSM3 car had ripped sail looking things on.
I swear i hate the studios now, every shop you are in, HSM rubbish, Outside, HSM show-loud and annoying, if you want food... Guess what! HSM!
Have been reading through this and it dawned on me I've never eaten here. Actually I don't think I've ever eaten in WDS, I've never spent enough time in the place. Maybe they'd be better expanding the amount of rides on offer to a reasonable amount, and then start worrying about re-themeing individual parts.
im so excited to eat here i may be on my own on this one thou lol but i do love hsm and as long as ashley tisdale aka sharpey is on the posters and stuff ill be happy =D i like the whole idea of having lots of hsm hehe
I'm now starting to like the name Disney Blockbuster Cafe, I think I can see Disneys angle on this one. Some people might prefer to have lunch surrouned by pictures of their favourite film characters, rather than eating in a prop room. There is no doubting the success of HSM. It's been very profitable for Disney.
Come to think of it maybe they should close Blockbuster Cafe altogether and expand Restaurant des Stars, it's the same kitchen for both. Restaurant des Stars seems to be so much more popular, we often go in there. Maybe turn part of it into a table service restaurant, the park hasn't got one. Or move the entrance which is stuck around the corner.
Quote from: "Nicholas-c"(//http://imgdash.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=221&g2_serialNumber=1) (//http://imgdash.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=219)
What! Now you're clearly just messing with us! :lol:
I don't know what to do but laugh. Is the old logo now hanging in the Louvre?
I think the problem with the "signage" is that it and the building still look very industrial, whereas the name is anything but industrial.
Whoever thought of the name and what the "signage" should look like didn't really think it through.
Well, I think it looks like a DVD rental store.
Quote from: "Reiana"Well, I think it looks like a DVD rental store.
Indeed :lol: :lol: :lol:
Bit late i know but heres what Blockerbuster Café looked like on Friday (10th, not yesterday), with the temp sign.
(//http://i29.tinypic.com/2iiir07.jpg)
So before you bad mouth the sign now, just think, it could have been worse :P
In my humble opinion if they are going with this whole movie theme on the inside then the outside deffo needs some work because as it looks now it's not exactly welcoming! :shock:
Hm :? I think, the white letters look better then the painted orange letters.
The white ones are more like "Wow, what is this? Must be important. Let's have a look."
The orange ones are more like "Hey, there is something written on the wall, can you read it? No? Alright. Let's move on."
if I saw this and walked past it I would... keep on walking
I'm sure the white is a primer... :)
High-res photos :)
Entire set.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/nicholas-c ... 703038488/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nicholas-c/sets/72157621703038488/)
Newest most interesting.
(//http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3453/3736826596_b11f1ede14.jpg?v=0)
Yaargh, Pirates be a coming me 'arties! :wink:
(//http://scroogy7509.ifrance.com/jul09/block12.jpg)
(//http://scroogy7509.ifrance.com/jul09/block13.jpg)
Looks like the Pirates area could be the highlight of this project 8)
Source: Scrooge on Disney Magic Interactive (//http://www.disneymagicinteractive.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?p=62712#p62712)
I always knew the Pirates area would make up for the High School Musical area. :P
It looks like its starting to shape up nicely, can't wait to see the finished article.
Wow, old torn up canvas. It's really something. :wink:
Sorry, couldn't resist on that one.
If at all, I think, I will definitely eat at the pirates section, not HSM.
"hmmm... what shall we do with these old bedsheets from the Disneyland hotel?"
Quote from: "RnRCj""hmmm... what shall we do with these old bedsheets from the Disneyland hotel?"
sell them on ebay £££
Quote from: "bigrossco"Quote from: "RnRCj""hmmm... what shall we do with these old bedsheets from the Disneyland hotel?"
sell them on ebay £££
Or... turn them into the sails of the Black Peril (as pictured above) ;)
Anyway so far to good for the POTC set, looking forward to seeing it complete :D
The restaurant is advertised on the back of this week's Programme: http://news.disneylandparis.co.uk/UK/EN ... arades.pdf (http://news.disneylandparis.co.uk/UK/EN/Neutral/Images/ShowsAndParades.pdf)
I presume that's because the current guidemaps still list Backlot Express, but maybe it means the overlay will finally be finished soon?
The Pirates room looks rather promising so far (and yes, I know they've just added some torn up sheets), but it still looks promising ;)
I don't think I will eat in there when I go in October, but I surely will go in to take a look at the "two" restaurants :)
If you haven't seen my Trip report yet you may be interested to see this pic...
(//http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff227/Peepjc_2007/DLP%20July%2009/DSC04461.jpg)
Yep, they've added a new part to the sign, a nice new sign saying 'cafe'. I think it looks ok like that, nothing special but better than it looked before.
Inside the HSM section was the same and couldn't really see much of the Pirates section, a large black piece of material was in the way, didn't look like anyone was in there doing anything though.
Thanks for the update!
Yes, the "Cafe" part certainly seems the best to me as well, and "Blockbuster" looks much better with the black outlines, but the whole thing together... my god, did they even draw this out on paper before putting it up? It looks like three separate teams were each asked to design part of the logo, then they jumbled them together at the end.
The black outline really does make the signage look better, still not great though.
Its not 3D enough for me.
Quote from: "Anthony"Thanks for the update!
Yes, the "Cafe" part certainly seems the best to me as well, and "Blockbuster" looks much better with the black outlines, but the whole thing together... my god, did they even draw this out on paper before putting it up? It looks like three separate teams were each asked to design part of the logo, then they jumbled them together at the end.
I totally agree, I really don't think it matches the theme inside but then again who ever decided that HSM and POTC went together?! :? :?:
As we approach the end of this refurb, let's just sum up what's happened:
a) the interior has been made much less exciting with the loss of the authentic and interesting props.
b) the exterior hasn't improved at all.
c) the menu hasn't improved either.
So yes. Well done Disney. This refurb was obviously well worth it. *sarcastic clap*
Oh I feel miserable writing this! At least it looks freshly painted. :lol:
the proof of the pudding ( excuse the pun ) will be if its any busier I guess at least now it looks like an eatery to the uneducated as opposed to a grey shed.
There are rumours on DCP that when Studio 1 finally gets repainted it'll get a new sign from the same team:
(//http://img22.imageshack.us/img22/3637/blockbustercafeiscrap.jpg)
oh dear :cry:
words escape me :?
although perhaps they are using photoshop to design things?? :D
Oh no!! I would rather them put a huge poster there instead!! And I HATED that thing!!
Haha, it must be convincing! :P
Quote from: "RnRCj"Haha, it must be convincing! :P
hahaha!! I have just realised!! Oh dear, I must seem extremely stupid now!! :oops: :oops: :P :P
But even if it was true, it would have been horrible!!
Anthony's photoshopping has improved i see :mrgreen: :lol:
More photos!!! High School Musical [strike:29dqr65s]props[/strike:29dqr65s] toys are now placed in the old paint cabinets. And more theming has been added in the POTC room.
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/upload/blockbuster_25july_1.jpg)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/upload/blockbuster_25july_3.jpg)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/upload/blockbuster_25july_6.jpg)
More photos on WDSfans here (//http://www.photosmagiques.com/wdsfans/news/news.php#newsitemEkulyVpVupKxoRkrzR).
Hey, putting a wheel there on the raised area is actually rather clever! And replacing the metal barriers with those wooden banisters (what's all the proper words here?) is quite a major job.
Now we can see where the money is going! :)
The POC area looks better then the HSM area.
Quote from: "littlemermaid83"The POC area looks better then the HSM area.
totally agree!
Quote from: "littlemermaid83"The POC area looks better then the HSM area.
it sure dose! and now i just want to go back :(
New photo posted by Mr. Freddy on Disney Central Plaza:
http://www.images-squish.net/users/VDR/23065.JPG (http://www.images-squish.net/users/VDR/23065.JPG)
That is one badly taken, badly lit photo. The ship's wheel and the wooden beams look good. But what;s up with the tables with the metal legs? Hopefully they're gonna be replaced with completely wooden ones. Even picnic benches would look better. Isn't there any spare ones from the Cowboy Cookout?
Hmmmmm, still waiting. I assume this is still incomplete?
i like the yellow window, i think that table looks like its just for the imagineers props :D
Oh, so many news everywhere :shock:
But I think the Pirates-area could look quite good when it's finished :)!
New photos from our trip report (//http://www.photosmagiques.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=7592).
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/news_updates/7-9_august_2009/blockbuster1.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/news_updates/7-9_august_2009/blockbuster2.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/news_updates/7-9_august_2009/blockbuster3.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/news_updates/7-9_august_2009/blockbuster4.JPG)
(//http://www.photosmagiques.com/gallery/news_updates/7-9_august_2009/blockbuster5.JPG)
Have they started on the Narnia room yet, or is it just gonna be POTC and HSM ??
It'll be these two themes only, Narnia was dropped. (Sadly, since they have lots of props and costumes stored backstage now.)
Detail I forgot to mention, the large black wall on the right (third picture) had a drawing sketched on it. Also notice the chandeliers suspended from the ceiling. The light bulbs flickered like a candle. And the windows have been covered with a blue filter so the it gives this moonlight effect.
Just had a nice idea for the POTC area. They could have a picture of Barbosa in full pirate get-up, which changes to his cursed skeletal version as you walked passed. Either like a 3-D hologram, or like the window inside the castle. Now that would be cool.
As for no Narnia, it kinda makes sense. As they're not making the 3rd film they probably thought that this would be like free advertising for somebody else's film
Shame they are not going to use the Narnia gear. Perhaps a little exibit as a part of the tram tour queue would be nice.
cant wait to see some real props hmm wot from hsm could go in there oo oplease let it be somthing that sharpey touched [-o<
Quote from: "Gareth"cant wait to see some real props hmm wot from hsm could go in there oo oplease let it be somthing that sharpey touched [-o<
Ill second that! [-o< [-o< [-o<
I think the POTC room is starting to look really cool! I'll definitely pay it a visit the next time I get to DLP. Can't wait to see it completely finished! :D
Yay! The car is gone! :mrgreen:
The PotC area looks okay actually. At least the props in the cabinet look authentic. I don't understand why they dedicated such a large area to HSM though, when they clearly don't have many ideas for it.
yay im not the only ashley tisdale fan here hehe lol :D and potc area does look cool why is it so much more profeshinal than hsm :( lol :roll:
Quote from: "RnRCj"Yay! The car is gone! :mrgreen:
Im so use to it being there now i didnt realise til' you said RnRCj !
Pirates area looks amazing, HSM is good too. Like i couldnt expect more from it :)
McFly on Disney Central Plaza posts that the Pirates of the Caribbean room opens tomorrow, with a nice picture of the [strike:1dxf4wbp]Backl[/strike:1dxf4wbp]- err Blockbuster Café team:
(//http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/8233/aaahvi.jpg)
Who'd have known so many people work there?
Aw that's a lovely group photo! :D
The guy right in the middle must thinks he's a real ladies man. The wry smile, laid back, legs slightly apart, shirt buttons undone......the only thing he's missing is a medallion (maybe he can get one from the PoTC props :wink: )
I have to admit that the Pirates room doesn't look too bad. Better than I've expected, but I don't know what I should think about the HSM room. I was never a big fan of the movies, so I don't care about this room.
We have never eaten there and I'm sure that we will never eat there, because we don't like the menu. We try to eat as often as possible in sit down restaurants, because of better value.
Wow... do they really need that many people? Makes you realise how many staff DLP must employ for the whole resort.
Is there any news of what's happened to the old props of Backlot Express? It'd be a shame to lose them.
Quote from: "RnRCj"Wow... do they really need that many people? Makes you realise how many staff DLP must employ for the whole resort.
Is there any news of what's happened to the old props of Backlot Express? It'd be a shame to lose them.
Especially the speeder bike from Return of the Jedi! Where did that go?
Quote from: "davewasbaloo"Quote from: "RnRCj"Wow... do they really need that many people? Makes you realise how many staff DLP must employ for the whole resort.
Is there any news of what's happened to the old props of Backlot Express? It'd be a shame to lose them.
Especially the speeder bike from Return of the Jedi! Where did that go?
[-o< ebay, ebay, ebay...... [-o<
Well there's 18 staff in the photo. All depends on the shift pattern they work.
2 shift a day=9 staff per shift, plus taking days off into account Im guessing 2 days durign the week.
That leaves 7 staff per shift during the week to serve, cook (reheat/slap in mircowave/whatever), clean tables and work the till.
For a busy place like DLP it isnt really that many.
The decorations of the restaurant (I wouldn't calling it "theming") are not too bad, I suppose. And an enviroment based on Disney's latest hits should be quite appealing. So, in general, I don't think that "Blockbuster Café" is a bad idea.
What I do complain about however is, that they transformed the Backlot Express into the Blockbuster Café. They took away one of the very few story-telling-environments of the Studios, that gave you the impression of being somewhere where movie magic was created, for a collection of HSM and Pirates decorations...
I've been thinking about this whole revamp, and I'm torn between the old and the new.
Yeah it lookied nice beforehand, like you were in a prop warehouse, but maybe this idea seemed better on paper. I'm pretty sure a lot of guests prefer something more organised when they eat, not in an old storage shed.
But I do think they've missed a trick with the POTC and HSM room. They've made them look like you've been sucked into the film, rather than you've just walked onto the set of the film (if you follow what I mean). Theme half of the room, and leave the other half 'behind the camera' with lighting, boom mics, director's chair etc.
That way there would be something in common with the old style, but still have something fresh and new about it.
Quote from: "Pete's Dragon"But I do think they've missed a trick with the POTC and HSM room. They've made them look like you've been sucked into the film, rather than you've just walked onto the set of the film (if you follow what I mean). Theme half of the room, and leave the other half 'behind the camera' with lighting, boom mics, director's chair etc.
That way there would be something in common with the old style, but still have something fresh and new about it.
THAT is how they should have decorated the entrance room (the room that stretches from the doors back to the cashiers and the collection points). They should have put loads of generic film props in there (lighting rigs, cameras, clapper boards, directors chairs, etc) and have it as if the other two rooms (POTC and HSM) were like mini soundstages/film sets, rather than having 2 HSM rooms. It also would have made it easier for them to perhaps make changes in the future so that it is up-to-date with the latest blockbusters 8)
They could have even made each of the restaurant aspects a little different too here; they could have had wooden tables and chairs in the Pirates area, School cafeteria type chairs and tables in the HSM area, and directors/stars chairs in the filming area :P
i have to admit, Pirates wins over HSM. I was half excepting a jolly roger with "PIRATES! ARGH!" Written on the wall, a little more than that :P
Well according to the programme guide for this week :
QuoteWa l t Di s n e y St u d i o s ® Pa r k
Disney Blockbuster Café ( replaces Backlot Express Restaurant )
« High School Musical »
« Pirates des Caraïbes »
are the themes in this newest, coolest place to eat.
Ooohhhh, the
coolest eh?
I much prefer the new themes the old 1 was horrid
Shame on me, the last time I visited the "old" Backlt express, I didn't even recognize it was movie props, hanging on the wall.
:roll:
Only ate once at the old one, the only things i remember are the place being cold (it was july) and empty :) It had mickey pizza tho so i was sold 8)
Quote from: "Pete's Dragon"The guy right in the middle must thinks he's a real ladies man. The wry smile, laid back, legs slightly apart, shirt buttons undone......the only thing he's missing is a medallion (maybe he can get one from the PoTC props :wink: )
:lol: :lol:
It isn't a great make-over, obviously the Pirates section is better than the HSM section but I still preferred the old look with loads of props everywhere. It's all cheap and doesn't look like a lot of thought went behind it. A waste of time and money in my opinion.
To me the 'Pirates' belong in Disneyland Park. There's a ride of a same name as the movies there and the landscape suits it. Unless it's a celebration of the high-tech wizardry and effects used in the films, the theming of 'Pirates' should all be kept together. Just the same principle if they suddenly do a princess theme in the studios because it is a more recent release...
In person... it's awful. Worse than it looks in pictures. Because we sit at home, looking at the individual photos saying "oh, that's new!", but add those together and it's just not enough when you walk in there.
Bare, soulless, cheap, poorly thought-out. I don't think it's just been the great weather meaning most people are eating outside. They really didn't understand what they taking on trying to re-"theme" a whole restaurant like this. It's a complete embarrassment.
And no-one has even mentioned or noticed the horrible cheap laminate floor laid over the original concrete in the High School section...! Who wants to eat in a bloody school sports hall when they're in a Disney park? That's like my idea of a nightmare. Not to mention it's going to be a sea of those yellow "Slippery floor" signs come Autumn...
Take note Euro Disney SCA: This is what happens when you think you don't need WDI!
Quote from: "Anthony"Who wants to eat in a bloody school sports hall when they're in a Disney park? That's like my idea of a nightmare.
Hear hear.
QuoteTake note Euro Disney SCA: This is what happens when you think you don't need WDI!
Sadly, these projects by EDLI have to be approved by WDI Glendale. :roll:
Quote from: "Kristof"QuoteTake note Euro Disney SCA: This is what happens when you think you don't need WDI!
Sadly, these projects by EDLI have to be approved by WDI Glendale. :roll:
Yep, Disney is a shell of the company I fell in love with
I have never known the studios to be as busy as they were last week, but this restaurant was nearly empty when RNRC had a 70min line. I thought the Pirates bit was ok, and the wheel is a nice photo point, but there is no atmosphere in there at all.
Yet more evidence that you can put lipstick on a pig, but it is still a pig. I suspect it is still the key issue with the menu and style of restaurant here. You would think will all the attractions in the this area that are not kid friendly, it would be busy with those waiting for babyswitch
Quote from: "Kristof"QuoteTake note Euro Disney SCA: This is what happens when you think you don't need WDI!
Sadly, these projects by EDLI have to be approved by WDI Glendale. :roll:
You're kidding, right?
Surely they must have submitted a completely different plan to what has actually happened. What's the point in WDI greenlighting things if they accept stuff like this? Removing ALL their thousands of props and set dressing for a few HSM banners and a generic pirate wheel?
Which, by the way, was covered in kids climbing all over it last week... :roll:
I'm not just bad mouthing the update for the sake of it, but come on.....
Let me digress back to WDS is supposed to be a working studio! Tarmac paving was there to suggest industry. Large sound stages with "sets". The Backlot express had that props department, messy closet feel. with lots and LOTS to look at. (Hidden Mickey in paint marks on the floor).
So how does this fit in to the original spiel?
Maybe if..... Naghh!
Yep, I must say, this does look even worse when you're actually there. It seemed a lot barer than it looks in photos. There was hardly anyone inside either over the last few days.
Quote from: "RnRCj"Yep, I must say, this does look even worse when you're actually there. It seemed a lot barer than it looks in photos. There was hardly anyone inside either over the last few days.
That's true. We had a look inside at wednesday and just took a few photos. I didn't want to eat there. There's no atmosphere. :roll:
Quote from: "Silvie78"Quote from: "RnRCj"Yep, I must say, this does look even worse when you're actually there. It seemed a lot barer than it looks in photos. There was hardly anyone inside either over the last few days.
That's true. We had a look inside at wednesday and just took a few photos. I didn't want to eat there. There's no atmosphere. :roll:
I wonder: what happens should revenues at this restaurant be lower now than before the "re-theming" ...?
Quote from: "experiment627"Quote from: "Silvie78"Quote from: "RnRCj"Yep, I must say, this does look even worse when you're actually there. It seemed a lot barer than it looks in photos. There was hardly anyone inside either over the last few days.
That's true. We had a look inside at wednesday and just took a few photos. I didn't want to eat there. There's no atmosphere. :roll:
I wonder: what happens should revenues at this restaurant be lower now than before the "re-theming" ...?
I think to the general audience, who don't come there that often won't really have an impact on it, a lot of people who only go once or twice tend to pay less attention to detail while eating than the fans that come more often, in my theory.
I don't like the look of this at all !! :( It was just ok before ,although as said it always seems cold in there.But now the POTC area looks like a cross between a poor mans Blue Lagoon and a lot of torn sheets hanging on a washing line ;don't get me started on the HSM section ,a few posters and some basket balls !!
They really need to add a great diner to the Studios , there are so many interesting places to eat in the Park , but nothing here ! We need to start a campaign for a Sci-Fi Dine In, it would be packed every day !!!
Some costumes were placed in the showcase in the smaller HSM themed room, but they didn't look like they were from the movies. Probably a creation by the costuming department... :roll:
And I agree with everyone else who has been to the restaurant personally and disliked it. It completely misses the point (and guests).
Quote from: "Kristof"And I agree with everyone else who has been to the restaurant personally and disliked it. It completely misses the point (and guests).
If only this were a one off :roll: :evil: :(
The problem is that it was designed to look like a warehouse for all of the props and stuff, and after the re-theming, due to the size and space, it STILL looks like a warehouse, but now it doesnt look like it's MEANT to, so it just looks unpleasant.
Also, I detest High School Musical with every fibre of my being.
Quote from: "Kristof"Some costumes were placed in the showcase in the smaller HSM themed room, but they didn't look like they were from the movies. Probably a creation by the costuming department... :roll:
I know DLP has less connection to "real" Disney than other resorts, but at times it feels like it's completely fake, run by people simply "playing" at being Disney. So what can we expect in the empty case in the Pirates room, a spare Jack Sparrow costume from the Disneyland Park character?
At least Pizza Planet over in Discoveryland is looking better now, eh? :wink:
Quote from: "Anthony"I know DLP has less connection to "real" Disney than other resorts, but at times it feels like it's completely fake, run by people simply "playing" at being Disney.
Yeah, I know what you mean! The fact that it has a fake studio park makes this even more painfully evident.
I know DLP has less connection to real Disney than the other resorts. I don't agree with that myself. But obviously some people feel that DLP is less of a Disney theme park . I think DLP is the most beautiful Magic Kingdom park, everything about it says Disney. OK, WDS isn't a real film studios ( nor is DHS now ) but surely it's a theme park first and foremost with a studios theme. When Disneyland Paris was first planned in the 1980's, the second park was going to be a studios. They built what they planned to build in the first place. But on a smaller scale, for the financial reasons we all know about.
Quote from: "ed-uk"But obviously some people feel that DLP is less of a Disney theme park . I think DLP is the most beautiful Magic Kingdom park, everything about it says Disney.
That's not the point - nowhere did I mention Disneyland Park, which of course I agree is - as built -
ridiculously "Disney". Seriously, can you imagine if Walt saw that park?!
No, I was talking about management. Disney sure built this place, but who's running it? Who's greenlighting hasty changes like Blockbuster Cafe, when clearly not enough money/imagination was in place?
I took DLP to mean Disneyland Park. In any event you said you felt DLP has less connection to real Disney than other resorts, and I included the parks. I wasn't sure what you ment. But you're talking about management, who you feel are simply playing at being Disney, and because of this the resort feels fake to you. So DLP isn't a real Disney resort but a fake Disney resort. It doesn't feel fake to me, I must admit. If we're talking about the Blockbuster Cafe the pirate room looks promising. It might draw more people in. Is it finished ? In case people think I'm taking the management line, I don't like the front of Studio 1 under cover.
Anthony, it pains me to say this, but welcome to modern Disney. This sort of stuff is not unique to DLP, but feels worse because of the wonderful work they did in the resort's beginning. WDW is just as bad, but it is so big, people don't need to notice so much. Remembering most of DLP's top brass cut their teeth in Florida.
Both resorts have lost it. Now that I found out it is cheaper to got to HKDL now than DL or WDW, and the same cost for Tokyo, I am planning on heading east once Mystic Point and Grizzly open.
I hope in the future DLP becomes as popular as WDW with 40,0000 visitors a year. Try little HKDL, you might like it better, not so modern. But you might want to aviod Toy Story Land and all those toons
I'm confused. In the POTC room are they trying to make it look as if you're aboard the Pearl, with the rigging above and the wheel etc? If so then why didn't they paint murals on the walls making look as you are on the open sea, or in Port Royal, or anything else other than black? Or painting a mural of a big storage area containing The Flying Dutchman in storage with you eating 'aboard' the Pearl.
It would have certainly brightened the place up! Sorry if someone else has already posted this and I missed it.
Is the work finished yet?
We ate in the pirate room and we were 4 of only 8 people in there, it was quiet but that might have had a lot to do with RNRC being closed when we were there last month. The food was ok, and the fact there werent stupid queues like in studio 1 was welcome. We had a nice time and had great fun getting pics with the wheel :D
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=9 ... =745295496 (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=9088583&op=1&o=global&view=global&subj=745295496&id=745295496)
Quote from: "jeakat24"I'm confused. In the POTC room are they trying to make it look as if you're aboard the Pearl, with the rigging above and the wheel etc? I
No you're not on board of the Black Pearl, you're in Davy Jones' Locker.
Oh see now it makes sense! Thanks!
I can't wait to actually see it in person, and be able to eat in the Studios with hardly a queue! I never ate in Backlot Express so i have nothing to compare the new design to, so hopefully I'll like it
I got word from a friend over at WDS that Jack Sparrow has set sail to Blockbuster Café and is now doing sets there at 12:30, 13:30 & 14:30, each time for 45 minutes. :)
Quote from: "Kristof"I got word from a friend over at WDS that Jack Sparrow has set sail to Blockbuster Café and is now doing sets there at 12:30, 13:30 & 14:30, each time for 45 minutes. :)
great news! A really nice and needful addition to Blockbuster Cafe :mrgreen:
Quote from: "Kristof"I got word from a friend over at WDS that Jack Sparrow has set sail to Blockbuster Café and is now doing sets there at 12:30, 13:30 & 14:30, each time for 45 minutes. :)
Great news, but this means he isn't located @ the POTC area??
Quote from: "Soap"Quote from: "Kristof"I got word from a friend over at WDS that Jack Sparrow has set sail to Blockbuster Café and is now doing sets there at 12:30, 13:30 & 14:30, each time for 45 minutes. :)
Great news, but this means he isn't located @ the POTC area??
I'm relatively sure, like Mickey etc, there's more than one Jack around the parks.
Quote from: "TR_Wolf"Quote from: "Soap"Quote from: "Kristof"I got word from a friend over at WDS that Jack Sparrow has set sail to Blockbuster Café and is now doing sets there at 12:30, 13:30 & 14:30, each time for 45 minutes. :)
Great news, but this means he isn't located @ the POTC area??
I'm relatively sure, like Mickey etc, there's more than one Jack around the parks.
Let's hope so.
But face characters is a bit more challenging i think and what about the extra costs?
Quote from: "Kristof"I got word from a friend over at WDS that Jack Sparrow has set sail to Blockbuster Café and is now doing sets there at 12:30, 13:30 & 14:30, each time for 45 minutes. :)
Is he doing song and dance routines from HSM ? :wink: I think this is a sign that the makeover has not been as successful as they had hoped , if the crowds had been flocking to the new Cafe they would not have to add characters to get people in !!
The Jack Sparrow meet 'n' greets were planned during the concept stage. :)
Where is he meeting people? Within the restaurant, in the POTC section? That'd be a bit weird considering how empty it normally is. But it'd be equally weird to see Jack Sparrow amongst the corrugated tin cans of Backlot outside...
Real or Replicas??? :-k
(//http://www.dlp.info/News/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Blockbuster-Cafe-Pirates-Area-16.jpg)
(//http://www.dlp.info/News/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Blockbuster-Cafe-High-School-Musical-Area-02.jpg)
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:arrow: http://www.dlp.info/News/2009/10/disney ... al-or-not/ (http://www.dlp.info/News/2009/10/disney-blockbuster-cafe-original-or-not/)
I'll check my contacts, but they don't look real... :roll:
That second picture of the HSM room is horrible. Who was the absolute twot who thought a couple of posters and some boring manakins would make a good themed restaurant? ](*,)
The same cretin who thought the problem with the backlot express was the decor.
OMG - They are really one the way to get interchangeable.
Thats the niveau, every conventional holiday park around the world would accomplish
I met Jack Sparrow in Blockbuster Café on the 12th.
If you go into the PotC area and turn directly to the right, it was that corner (in front of the set-up with the "treasure") he was in.
There was a character attendant pretty much right next to him making sure all went well, but I must say everyone waiting to have their picture taken was very wellbehaved (on the contrary of what sometimes happens in Adventureland).
During Winter he's mostly just available in WDS because of costuming I think. I don't think he'd hold out in something that light in Adventureland, although he does make unannounced appearances there too when the weather isn't too bad (my friend Sam saw him out on his meet and greet spot in Adventureland the 7th of Feb).
My advice would be to go to Blockbuster about 10 minutes before the meet and greet is scedualed to start and just wait in that corner. If he goes to stand somewhere else, you'll at least see him come in and be one of the first people to have your picture taken with him.
Maybe Jack Sparrow will bring some people in this ugly restaurant. The PotC theme looks cheap and HSM isn't really better. Bring back the old Backlot Express restaurant.
We have been to this restaurant several times during our last visit to get some hot tea and it was always empty.
It was a full house back on the 12th and that was the only time I've ever been in there.
To be honest I just popped in for a picture with Jack Sparrow and that was it.
The PotC theming seemed alright from the quick glace I threw on it, but the HSM part was sterile and just ugly. I really didn't like that at all.
I liked the old restaurant better as well. I wonder what happened to all the marvelous set-pieces they had all over teh place back then.
I was there on the 4th, although the park had only moderate traffic, there were quite some people in there (although no Jack Sparrow). But Café des Cascadeurs was closed together with most of the kiosks. So, if you didn't want all-you-can-eat-buffet or a burger from the overcrowded En Coulisse Restaurant, there was nowere else to go. That's also a way to drive traffic into a restaurant.
I've been to this place once before, it was still the Backlot Express restaurant back then. I mean, it wasn't great as it was, but at the least you had something to look at. The menu, as far as I can remember, is exactly the same now as it was back then.
I'm probably repeating what most people think of it here, but hey, maybe somebody will eventually get a clue... I was quite shocked at the look of this thing... Bland, cold and utter low quality. Even the lockers are just fake red boards with cheap stickers on them. As for the pirate room, it also looks cheap and the contrast between the bright white-and-red HSM room will make your eyes hurt even more.
So, I'm trying to figure out what the deal is behind this "refurb"? They spent money on a place that was "ok" to make it look worse. They ripped the whole place out of the little context that was left for it and they did it to push some cheap marketing and branding for HSM and Pirates? Sorry, that's just an utter fail.
Quote from: "The Butlin Boy"Real or Replicas???
Oops, I never got back to this... I've asked around, so they turn out to be park characters' costumes. :roll:
I'm now waiting for them to hang "signed" pictures of the cast. Quick print-out, grab a marker pen...
Another point entirely: with the HSM shows now gone, how much longer do we suspect the restaurant will keep its HSM "theme"? It seems like the party's over to me. Any one of Alice in Wonderland, Prince of Persia or Tron Legacy would be great replacements.
Quote from: "Anthony"I'm now waiting for them to hang "signed" pictures of the cast. Quick print-out, grab a marker pen...
Another point entirely: with the HSM shows now gone, how much longer do we suspect the restaurant will keep its HSM "theme"? It seems like the party's over to me. Any one of Alice in Wonderland, Prince of Persia or Tron Legacy would be great replacements.
Hopefully the HSM theme will be gone soon.
I want the old Backlot restaurant back, but with a new menu. I liked the Backlot express a lot better than the Blockbuster Cafe.
Quote from: "Anthony"Another point entirely: with the HSM shows now gone, how much longer do we suspect the restaurant will keep its HSM "theme"? It seems like the party's over to me. Any one of Alice in Wonderland, Prince of Persia or Tron Legacy would be great replacements.
Oh I agree with you there!
Done well any of those would be awesome!
I just hope that IF they replace the HSM theme they'll do it a lot better than they did now with the HSM stuff!
HSM seems to me to being phased out around the resort, all HSM merchandise had 40% off - maybe the restaurant will be next??
Quote from: "smurfy74"HSM seems to me to being phased out around the resort, all HSM merchandise had 40% off - maybe the restaurant will be next??
I thought there was a HSM 4 coming out in Summer though? Maybe they'll just take down the old posters and whack a few new ones up.
*crosses fingers and hopes not*
Quote from: "smurfy74"HSM seems to me to being phased out around the resort, all HSM merchandise had 40% off - maybe the restaurant will be next??
Let's hope so [-o< That space in Blockbuster Café could be re-themed as something truly immersive if the right Imagineering minds were behind it.
I'll be honest, I never went in the restaurant when it was Backlot Express, but now I'm actually sad it's gone, and that I never really gave it a chance. It certainly wasn't perfect before, but it was a lot more interesting than the HSM room it is now. I've not actually seen Blockbuster Café in the flesh so to speak, so maybe in June I might think differently.
Speaking of the Backlot Express, have you seen the original version over at Disney's Hollywood Studios? It has the same industrial design as the Paris version, yet manages to look more inviting, with its tropical palm trees:
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That looks awesome!
But we're not in the Hollywood Studios (unfortunately...)
looks so much nicer if only DLP would take notice!
I liked the Backlot Express at DHS a lot. It was always very relaxing to sit between the palm trees and having a cup of coffee, soft drink or a beer.
I'm also a little bit sad that it is gone in Paris. I don't like the HSM theme and I really hope that it will be gone soon. They should put some plants into the building and then they could create a restaurant like the one at DHS.
Ironically (is it irony?) our Backlot Express used to be an improvement on Florida's (not as big or as green, but it had more character and many more props within a smaller space). Not so anymore...
I do like the pirates theme but I just can't get into the HSM theme. If they replace the HSM theme, I would like to see either a Cars or Monsters Inc. theme, I really think the outside structure fits in with Monsters Inc., they could put make the table tops out of different style doors. Also since Cars 2 is in the works I think it would be a good place to showcase that as well.
I think they really should rethink the whole concept. I miss the old Backlot Express Café sooo much. HSM was dated from the moment they decided to make a HSM room at the café. For POTC we have a big great wonderful themed attraction over at Disneyland Park (with a restaurant inside :shock: ). Backlot Express was a very well themed restaurant with wonderful desssssserts and wonderful props everywhere. It had a story (and not just "like inside movie XY"), one of that thinks I miss that often at WDSp, and was an example for me how backlot should look like. Not without theme, props and only with irony everywhere. Disney industrial style.
Get the old Backlot Express back, make a industrial themed garage with a lot of diffrent cars and props out of the Stunt-Show entrance and building and let tour de force be a real music studio maybe with a big guitar fountain or else, MORE GREEN (Palm Trees, bushes, flowers) --> wonderful THEMED backlot with story.